Feeding our faith
We have been on a personal journey, reflecting on various scriptures under the theme 'By Faith' over the past nine months in our weekly devotionals. Living by faith is not just a concept but a deeply personal experience for those adherents of a religion. For those who identify as Christian, our belief system is not just a set of rules, but a living faith built upon our trust in Jesus as the embodied reflection of God. We accept this not just from the testimony of the scriptures but also from the accounts of persons who have experienced God.
Our text for this week, Romans 10:17, communicates, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Though not directly related to healthcare, this scripture holds a profound message for our Loma Linda University Health family. Just as Jesus urged His disciples to truly listen, we too are called to listen deeply to each other, students and patients, to their needs, and to the guidance of God in our work. I often find this counsel challenging. Why didn't the original hearers understand? Why do I sometimes not understand?
In our work providing healthcare and training providers, we are constantly exposed to new information, theories, and methodologies. Navigating these in our diverse, multicultural, multiethnic, multifaith community of learners and caregivers tests our faith in our abilities, others, and, yes, at times, God. Yet, amid our pursuits, let us not neglect the cultivation of our spiritual selves. Just as we diligently acquire new skills, adapt to market trends, or conduct research to expand our understanding, so must we nurture our faith to strengthen our spiritual foundation.
Faith, like knowledge, is not stagnant. It is dynamic and requires nurturing. Just as a seed needs water and sunlight to grow, our faith involves the sustenance of God's word. We must immerse ourselves in scripture, allowing its truths to penetrate our hearts and minds. Furthermore, our faith is not just a source of comfort but a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty and adversity. Our unwavering trust in God sustains us and gives us the courage to persevere in the face of challenges and setbacks and times of transition. Just as we trust in the principles that underpin our work, so too must we trust in God's promises, knowing that He will guide us through even the most difficult times. Our faith calls us to serve with humility and empathy, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual we encounter.
In conclusion, let us not only heed the words of Romans 10:17 by actively cultivating our faith. Let us be students discovering and rediscovering the skills of our respective disciplines and the word of God. By integrating faith and knowledge, we can build a solid foundation that will not only sustain us in our organizational pursuits but also enrich our spiritual and professional development, equipping us to serve our diverse, multicultural community with compassion and integrity.
—Dilys Brooks, PhD, BCC, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.
